When the Boston Celtics landed in the NBA Finals last season, it was the club’s defensive prowess that had been the tail that wagged the dog. Boston’s defense was historically good by many measures, powering the Celtics to a deep postseason run. Athleticism, grit, and a dynamic system allowed the team to fully dominate on this end of the floor.
The conventional assumption was Boston’s coach at the time Ime Udoka created the conditions for the team’s imposing defense. Udoka preached accountability and toughness, and his new regime coincided with a new era of defensive greatness for the Celtics.
What if Udoka doesn’t deserve as much credit here, though? According to one member of the 2022-23 Celtics, it was a different member of the team’s coaching staff that really helped propel Boston’s stellar defense to new heights.
The Boston Celtics are looking at the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel for their 2022-23 slate of regular season games. https://t.co/RBcYBRSdm7
— The Celtics Wire (@TheCelticsWire) March 22, 2023